We like this structural design. How do we do it in glass?
Innovation and problem solving: how Glasstec delivers unique architectural glass solutions
Architects and property developers rely on the individual expertise of time-served professionals in all aspects of new build and renovation projects. Glasstec Systems’ team of glazing specialists provides over 50 years of combined experience in residential and commercial architectural glazing. Project managers value our knowledge and hands-on approach from the initial enquiry stage, through design, manufacture and installation, to site sign-off.
What sets Glasstec Systems apart?
- Glasstec is a trusted name with architects and specifiers for delivering unique glazing designs. Hearing, “we really like this design or structure, but how can we do it in glass?” is where the creativity begins
- We engage with the designer or architect at the design concept stage to avoid later problems in the design and build process
- Exceptional customer satisfaction is always a priority. We gain approval at key stages of each project, and suggest improvements or modifications through cost-effective products and services
- We consider ourselves to be a team of problem solvers, creating unique glazing concepts that deliver, what might appear to be, almost impossible design briefs
- That said, we’re never deterred from relying on our expertise to advise against certain proposals; candour can be the most cost-effective policy that opens doors to alternative solutions
- Glasstec’s senior female figures, Lauren Cass and Rhea Cass, spearhead a management team in a construction industry in which women remain underrepresented.
Glasstec Systems’ design expertise in practice
Since our inception in 2010, Glasstec has worked on many unique projects. The pace at which architectural design has evolved has demanded a dynamic approach to structural glazing design, leading to some particularly memorable glazing installations.
15 Clerkenwell Close
15 Clerkenwell Close was a double RIBA Award winning project we are incredibly proud to have been part of.
Amin Taha Architects commissioned Glasstec Systems for architectural glazing on this six-storey, prestige residential development in Islington, having previously worked with us on other projects.
Glasstec designed insulated glass panels in different shapes and sizes to complement the building’s unconventional façade of limestone structural columns and beams.
We also produced seven drive-over ground lights and a bespoke, toughened glass roof garden structure for which we used low-e (low-emissivity) glass. Low-e glass provides thermal efficiency by reducing the infiltration of infrared and UV (ultra-violet) light through the glass. It also minimises the amount of light coming through the glass to provide clearer views, vision, light and colour from inside the building.
See the full case study here.
43 Nottingham Place, Marylebone
The ‘piece de resistance’ of the 43 Nottingham Place project is the ‘floating’ staircase. The brief was to hide all fixings to give the appearance of floating to make the staircase a focal point, and maximise space and light. Many structural design issues were to be overcome to ensure the ‘floating’ glass staircase brief was fulfilled.
Each 27mm thick stair was fixed to a supporting metal tray extruding from the structural wall. The metal trays were mechanically fixed through the glass, with aluminium capping covering the fixing plates. LED lighting strips were incorporated into the trad casing to produce subtle lighting, and large glass panel screens were installed alongside the staircase for safety.
See the full case study here.
The Smiths Building, Great Portland Street
For The Smiths Building, Glasstec designed and installed the entire glass shopfront including the metalwork, door entrance and feature door canopy.
We fabricated the feature metal panel work, below the large glass windows, from welded component pieces, producing distinctive large panels before being powder coated.
The large minimalist shop front glass panels, each weighing 322kg, were set and secured into bespoke steel frames with structural mastic. The structural steel work, feature panels and feature canopy were individually site surveyed, manufactured and powder coated off site before being brought back to site for installation.
See the full case study here.
168 Upper Street, London
168 Upper Street is a 19th Century terrace block. Glasstec supplied bespoke patinated brass windows and large terracotta pivot doors for this heritage project, for which aesthetic impact was a key driver.
Each glass panel featured low-iron insulated glass for higher light transparency and a dramatic contrast against the patinated brass frames. Some of the panels weighed over 400kg, presenting manufacturing and installation challenges which the team was able to overcome using the likes of high performance lifting equipment. We collaborated with the main contractor throughout for a smooth project completion.
See the full case study here.
Do you have a unique structural glazing requirement for your project?
Get in touch with Glasstec Systems to discuss how our services can help you deliver your structural glazing vision.
